Opening Doors, Building Bridges: MK Organic Coaching News
Happy Advent!
I decided to write some news from the professional front. So much is going on and I’m excited about the different opportunities. I wanted to clarify things for myself and keep you all updated at the same time.
Last academic year was a quiet one for my business, since my son was ill and most of my energy went into caring for him. In April he started showing signs of improvement, and I was finally able to dedicate some energy toward business development and networking. What a joy it has been to step back into this work!
ThinkTank & Ministry Leader Support
Since June, I’ve been part of a group of current and retired church professionals we call the ThinkTank. I’m privileged to learn from the wisdom of leaders who have been serving churches for decades. In this inspiring comradery, an idea emerged for me: a ministry leader support system, centered on monthly nationwide online gatherings. We’re still working on the details as well as making the concept more sustainable, but I’m excited about bringing frontline ministry leaders together for learning, personal development, and encouragement. We plan to publicize this new opportunity at Best Practices in Arizona, February 2026.
Best Practices Session in February
Another exciting opportunity: I’ll host a learning session at Best Practices! My topic is “Do you dare to be a healthy church?” We’ll explore the characteristics of healthy churches—and how it all starts with individuals. I hope to have a good group of learners and possibly continue interaction even after the event. Maybe this will connect with the ministry leader support system we’ve been envisioning.
Peer Support Communities
I haven’t been just imagining nation-wide support groups — I already have some experience in leading them:
US NCD Coaches: We started gatherings in October, and the reception has been very positive. My goal is for many people to be involved in planning and execution so it becomes a true community effort. This is a wonderful opportunity for me to connect with others in the same profession, and it is such a gift to see others benefit from and find joy in it as well!
Church Admins & Secretaries: Out of my own part-time work as a church office admin and interacting with others in the same role in the Shareboard lay leader platform, I saw the need for fellowship and mutual learning. God provided a few participants for the first gathering, and I’m hoping for more in January. It’s been interesting to learn how eager people are to connect—even online.
Opening Doors
With the ThinkTank’s guidance, I’ve also begun approaching denominational leaders to learn how I could help advance ministry. Coaching is not very well known in our denomination, let alone Natural Church Development. My hope is that God opens doors so more churches can benefit from these tried and proven practices.
Connection and Coaching Across Borders
I’ve really been enjoying coaching individuals in different roles and walks of life. I have the privilege of coaching nonprofit and ministry leaders, where I can offer not just coaching but also expertise in best practices for working in communities. I’ve also been entrusted with coaching some Finns in my native language. Since all my coach training was in English, this has been a welcome challenge—learning to articulate questions and reflections for change in Finnish.
Last but not least, I was excited to hear that our Finnish sister denomination hired a community development coordinator to strengthen their church communities. Through a mutual friend, I was able to connect with her. Our first conversation was both inspiring and thought‑provoking, and we agreed to continue meeting monthly as thought partners.
Looking Ahead
This reflection reminds me that growth often begins quietly, then blossoms into something greater. Whether through nationwide gatherings, local meetups, or one-on-one coaching, I see God weaving opportunities for renewal, connection, and courage. I’m eager to see what He has in store for me, for the church, and for you!
If you’re longing for healthier communities or personal growth, I’d love to walk alongside you. Together, we can cultivate spaces where people thrive and values lead the way. I’d love to explore a potential partnership—feel free to let me know a good time for a call, or drop me an email to connect.